Classic Baklava – Sweet and Nutty Middle Eastern Pastry

Difficulty: Medium   |   Servings: 12   |   Prep Time: 45 minutes   |   Cook Time: 1 hour

Introduction

Baklava is a beloved Middle Eastern dessert famous for its flaky layers of phyllo dough, rich buttery nuts, and fragrant honey syrup. This classic pastry combines crunchy texture and sweet syrupy goodness in every bite, making it a perfect dessert for celebrations or afternoon tea. Making baklava requires patience but the result is an irresistible treat that has been enjoyed for centuries.

Ingredients

For the Nut Filling:

• 2 cups mixed nuts (walnuts, pistachios, almonds), finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ cup granulated sugar

For the Pastry:

• 1 package phyllo dough (about 16 oz), thawed
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Honey Syrup:

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup honey
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prepare the Nut Filling

1. In a bowl, combine finely chopped nuts, cinnamon, and sugar. Set aside.

2. Assemble the Baklava

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Brush a 9x13 inch baking dish with melted butter.
3. Lay one sheet of phyllo dough in the dish and brush with butter. Repeat layering about 8 sheets, brushing butter between each.
4. Evenly sprinkle a thin layer of the nut filling over the dough.
5. Layer 5 more sheets of phyllo on top, brushing butter between sheets.
6. Add another layer of nut filling, then cover with the remaining phyllo sheets, brushing each with butter.
7. Using a sharp knife, cut the assembled baklava into diamond or square shapes before baking.

3. Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for about 50–60 minutes until golden and crisp.

4. Make the Honey Syrup

1. While baking, combine water, sugar, honey, lemon juice, and cinnamon stick in a saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Discard cinnamon stick.

5. Finish the Baklava

1. Once baklava is out of the oven, immediately pour the warm syrup evenly over it.
2. Allow to cool completely and absorb the syrup before serving (several hours or overnight).

Tips & Variations

• Nut mix: Customize with your favorite nuts or add chopped dates for extra sweetness.
• Spices: Add ground cloves or nutmeg for a warm spice note.
• Storage: Store covered at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~350
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 22g